More than 1,500 miles … That’s the average distance most food travels from where it’s harvested, slaughtered or manufactured to reach the average kitchen in the United States. Even here in Vermont, a state known for its localvore ideals and high-quality, small-scale food products, that number holds true. Which is why any effort to reduce that number, even a small-scale effort, is one that should be supported as much as possible.

In last week’s issue we reported on just such an effort, one that plans to wholesale locally grown vegetables to local restaurants and stores. Such a plan seems like a no-brainer: Grow vegetables locally, sell them locally, reduce transportation expenses, and have high-quality vegetables on the tables of the valley’s restaurants. As long as local businesses buy in to the program, and the growers can deliver as promised, it should be a win-win for all involved, including the diners who frequent local restaurants.

We’ve long been a supporter of keeping business local. The more money that stays in the local economy, the more we all benefit. This local farm-to-business effort is just one more example of how a small effort can have a big payback.

Since the area is finally experiencing a spring season, it seems apropos to talk about local foods and markets. Aside from the farm-to-business initiative, there are some other local food initiatives beginning to sprout around the area.

On May 29 a meeting will be held to put together plans for a farmers market at the flea market field at the corner of Route 9 and Route 100 south in Wilmington. While we don’t expect the entire population of the valley to turn out for the planning meeting, we would hope enough interested parties show up to make the market viable. Last summer organizers put together a seven-week trial run, and there was enough interest to warrant bringing back the market this year. This year they hope to be bigger and better than ever.

Next month a Friday-afternoon farmers market will debut in West Townshend at the renovated former post office and store building. This market was held on Townshend Common the past couple of years, but has moved to a new location for the summer. Organizers say the new space gives them the option of either indoor or outdoor space, depending on the weather.

Also coming online is a new slaughterhouse at Adams Farm in Wilmington. Once again, locally-produced food items should be available right here in the area. No need to buy meats shipped in from some far-away locale.

What we hope readers realize is that for any of these ventures to be successful, they need to become economically viable. Which means people need to buy local: Local producers need local support. It’s good for business, good for the economy, and good for shoppers.

Just about anyone will say they want fresh, local produce and products. Now it’s time to put their money where their mouths are.

Fresh, local products and produce sound great, sure!!!! But there is no mention in this article of what any price tags are going to be! For this to work, the products and produce must be AFFORDABLE for us locals. Especially during the spring when things slow down!!